The Great Ink Cartridge Hunt: A Lesson in Studio Chaos and Relief

As any artist knows, deadlines have a way of sneaking up on you. Last week was one of those times. I had an order of dishcloths that needed to go out, but first needed to print sleeves for them, cards to print, and on top of that, I was preparing for an upcoming art show. I was in full production mode when suddenly, disaster struck: I ran out of one of my printer’s ink colors.

“No problem,” I thought. “I’m sure I have some extra cartridges around.” With that confidence, I began tearing apart my studio. You know that feeling when you’re absolutely certain something is just there? I was there—turning my studio upside down, checking every shelf, drawer, and box. I even ventured into the unlikely places, like that dusty corner behind the printer where nothing useful ever ends up, but you check anyway when you're desperate.

As time ticked by, my frustration grew. I couldn’t find the cartridges anywhere. I began to resign myself to the fact that I would have to place a rush order, knowing it would be costly but necessary.

So, after a deep breath and a sigh of resignation, I got online and ordered a full set of 12 ink cartridges—better safe than sorry, right? I even paid extra for rush delivery because I needed them the next day. With the order placed, I felt a mix of relief and frustration. I’d have what I needed, but the stress of the search still lingered.

Then, as I sat back, I noticed a box on my storage shelf right next to the printer. It’s one of those boxes that had been sitting there for so long it practically blended into the background. Curiosity got the better of me, so I opened it. And there they were—all my missing cartridges, neatly packed and completely overlooked.

I could have kicked myself! They were right under my nose the whole time. The relief was instant, but so was the feeling of stupidity. How could I have missed them?

I quickly called up the online store, Computer Foods, Auckland, and explained my situation—something along the lines of “I’m awfully sorry, but I’ve just placed an order and no longer need the full set.” Thankfully, they were incredibly understanding and processed a partial refund. The remaining cartridges I needed arrived the next day, just before lunch, right on time.

In the end, I got everything printed and nothing was held up. But the experience was a reminder that we’re all human. We make mistakes, and sometimes, in the middle of the chaos, we overlook the most obvious things. It’s a funny story now, but at the time, it was a lesson in patience, persistence, and the importance of keeping your studio organized—well, as organized as an artist’s studio can ever be.

So, if you’re ever tearing your studio apart looking for something, take a breath and check the obvious places first. You never know—it might just be right under your nose.